Conclusion
The Samsung Q9F transcends the technology it is based upon. Yes, it’s an edgelit LED-LCD TV. But Samsung sees QLED as a distinct product category because, as a whole, it offers a level of performance that was previously unimaginable for a TV of its type.
The ability to get bright, reproduce vivid color, and calibrate accurately means the Q9F can reproduce HDR content as it was seen on the mastering display. This TV easily exceeds the specifications required for its UHD Premium certification, and consequently provides viewers with an experience that’s remarkably faithful to the director’s intent.
Now, when it comes to cinematic experiences, I’m all for giving contrast and deep blacks their due. The contribution of those elements to picture quality is immense. But here’s the thing; for most content, most of the time—and especially with some ambient light—the Samsung Q9F handles blacks and deep shadows extremely well.
You might find another HDR flat-panel TV that does one or two things better than the Q9F, and you’ll certainly find many that cost less. But you’ll be hard pressed to find one as well designed and jam-packed with features as this one. Sure, you pay for the privilege, but if you can afford it, Samsung’s 2017 flagship is a top pick.
In Part 2, I’ll present my pre-and post-calibration measurements and offer my subjective impressions from watching real-world content, so stay tuned for that!
http://www.avsforum.com/samsung-q9f-65-qled-lcd-tv-qn65q9f-review-part-1/
